An onlooker took this photo of Kate with George, dressed in green, and Charlotte in pink eating an ice cream cone (with thanks to From Berkshire to Buckingham for spotting and sharing the snap).
Houghton Hall is owned by William and Kate's Norfolk neighbours, the Marquess and Marchioness of Cholmondeley.
Coincidentally, in our last post we were chatting about the gala David and Rose Cholmondeley hosted on behalf of East Anglia's Children's Hospices in 2016. Kate and Rose have become good friends and the couple are said to be regular visitors to Anmer.
William, Kate and the children also attended the trials in 2016, with friends Laura and James Meade.
The horse trials are very much a family day out with an array of children's entertainment on offer for George and Charlotte; spinning plates, ice cream and bouncy castles to name a few. And we know the little Prince and Princess had a terrific day with the balloon animals on offer during a Children's Party in Canada in 2016 :)
Aside from sport, there are over 70 exhibitors, including country clothing, equestrian supplies, local produce and garden furniture. More on the event: "Exhilarating sporting action, a spectacular setting, entertainment for young and old, plus shopping at over 70 trade stands. Set in the magnificent grounds of Houghton Hall, Norfolk, this truly is one of the most outstanding venues within the sport of eventing. After gaining International status in 2007 the event now welcomes over 700 horses each year, including more than 350 International competitors. It hosts the only British leg of the FEI Nations Cup, a series where teams from as far afield as Australia and New Zealand battle it out to top the table come the final event at Boekelo, Holland, in October. In addition Houghton also hosts the Naff British Eventing U21 National Championships."
In addition to the Horse Trials, the Colour Space Paintings & Outdoor Sculptures exhibition by Damien Hirst is currently exhibiting at the Hall.
It turns out funds raised by the exhibition and Houghton Hall's design pop-up shop will benefit Each Anglia's Children's Hospices. Kate has been Royal Patron since 2012 and Rose Cholmondeley was announced as a Patron last week.
Below, a painting by Carroll medal winner Thomas Leveritt on display.
Kate's very pretty summery dress is the $69 ZARA Flocked Print Dress (with thanks to UFO No More). The sky blue dress features off-the-shoulder, short-puff sleeves, floral appliqué details with a velvet effect and embroidered sequins on the front and sleeves. It's a gorgeous dress and very reminiscent of Kate's pre-wedding style.
A closer look at the floral details and belt.
Little Makes Big confirmed Kate carried their Monogrammed Tote. The brand notes the "elegant tote has been worn by Pippa Middleton, features unparalleled quality".
From what we can see it appears Kate accessorised with her Catherine Zoraida Double Leaf earrings (with thanks to the eagle-eyed Sara).
It looks like the Cambridges enjoyed a lovely day out; it's always fun to have an unexpected sighting!
What a cute family! I love to see examples of Kate’s off-duty style. This dress is something I would totally wear.
ReplyDeleteTotally agree about her off duty style. So happy to see that she is retaining her "look" when not working.
DeleteWhat a. Lovely family hmm the duchess catherine. Looks good in. Off duty style I want steal that dreas is wearing
ReplyDeleteLove seeing Kate with her children. But wish William was with the family.
ReplyDeletePerhaps William was taking care of Louis at home, and giving Kate some quality time with George and Charlotte. I know my husband does that for me often. And, with Louis being their third child, William is a pro at caring for babies, I'm sure. Plus, it gives him bonding time with Louis.
DeleteWilliam was at a football match that day.
Deletehttp://worldofwindsor.tumblr.com/
William was at that football match on Saturday. Kate's outing with George and Charlotte was on Sunday.
DeleteHow sweet! What treat to see them today.
ReplyDeleteWhat a sweet picture of Kate and two of her children. Doing what she does best, being a mom. I love Charlotte's little pink shoes with no strings. Thanks for this post, Charlotte!
ReplyDeleteBecause we don't get to see pictures of them out and about, I sort of always envision that they are holed up at KP. Glad to see that they are able to get out and do normal things . . .and glad we got to see a couple of pictures! Kate looks great - especially her hair. Love Charlotte's dress as well. In another picture I saw on Twitter, George has the same style sneaker on as Charlotte.
ReplyDeleteHope from USA
No Protection officers about?
ReplyDeleteOh, I'm sure there was. They can be rather good at keeping in the background. That actually gives them a better vantage point to notice something happening than being next to the royals. The "right next to" ones are mostly a way to "scare away" and show people that she is guarded. In a more relaxed area like this on familiar grounds it's probably not needed.
DeleteBeautiful family. Lovely to see off-duty photos.
ReplyDeleteWay to go Duchess Catherine!! Wish she was visiting Israel too!!
ReplyDeleteCharlotte Do you know if William was playing polo at the same event Kate and the kids were attending. I know he play Friday.
ReplyDeletePretty sure they don't have polo at this event. Just other horse stuff and more general "fair/market" stuff for the kids to do.
DeleteI just wanted to correct you on the photo with the gentleman making the animal balloons. It didn't take place at a horse trial, it was at Government House in Victoria, B.C. in Sept. 2016
ReplyDeleteCharlotte did say it was in Canada, Brenda :)
DeleteOh yes Brenda the photo was meant as an example of their fondness for animal balloons. I added reference to Canada :)
DeleteThis looks like sweet family outing. Happy to see that she feels up to it and is able to make time for her older children without the baby. Really like her dress and its price. Nice, that she is still into the normal price range- that is one thing people used to love her for.
ReplyDeleteIt is always interesting to see her „off duty“ style. Very different from her official outings. I think it is wise to have this distinction between privacy and work.
C.
She must be a wonderful mummy, very present and caring. Also, are these new sunglasses?
ReplyDeleteWhat a surprise to see Kate and her sons in confortable dresses spending a day out! Love Kate's look!
ReplyDeleteOops she has only one son and her daughter with her. The other son is only. Month old.
DeleteBe patient, in Italian 'sons' is the same word as 'children'.
DeleteShe meant Kate and her children.
Camilla, from Italy
Yes, sorry! Grazie Camilla!
Deletelooks like kate used a tool to do her hair , like a hair twist clip
ReplyDeleteI noticed that as well!
DeleteYes, and it looks really pretty!
DeleteYes, I love this hair style. So easy and looks great.
DeleteHow wonderful! Seems like the perfect outing with the kids, and especially since they have friends and such near there as well :) I hope they had a wonderful time and they all look wonderfully summery!
ReplyDeleteShe looks good. After the birth her face looks fuller.
ReplyDeleteI think her body is curvier now as well too! She looks good, she was a bit thin before this IMO.
DeleteCatherine and the children look so relaxed and “normal” it must be lovely to have a quiet day without the attention. I do wonder if everyone around realises who’s eating ice cream next to them 😂
ReplyDeleteThe whole family looks really lovely and summery too
It really is coincidental that Charlotte's last post included news that Rose is now a patron of EACH, and then here's Kate with the wee ones at the Houghton Hall Horse Trials. Luckily the weather is so much nicer this year. Maybe George and Charlotte will get a chance to brush up on their riding during the half-term break. Charlotte looks adorable and as curious as usual, while George's knees look as if he's been up to some mischief. The detail on the dress is beautiful with very of-the-moment puffed sleeves in Kate's favorite blue. I'm always interested to see her down-time style, which is where I'm guessing her pre-wedding style finds expression at times. Love the hair too!!
ReplyDeleteWonderful news about the exhibition and that the proceeds will go to EACH. I imagine Kate was also involved with this initiative. I'm somewhat familiar with Hirst's work, which, in the past, has been controversial and is seen as too bizarre for some. I think, however, his "pegasus exposed" looks almost as majestic mounted on the lawns of Houghton Hall as it did at Chatsworth some years ago, when maybe they were raising funds for restoration of Chatsworth House. I hope this exhibition and pop-up shop at Houghton House will raise some serious funds for EACH.
I wonder where's george's icecream. I've seen this before that Kate often tends to wear a off-shoulder dress 'on-shoulder'.
ReplyDeleteI think his red ice cream may be on the front of his shorts! I zoomed in to see the red spot on his little shorts, and it looked a lot like red ice cream. I may be wrong. Lol!
DeleteI love the idea of off shoulder dresses but the moment I move my arms they inevitably end up on my shoulders. With two little ones it is probably more practical to just wear it on your shoulders.
DeleteQueen of the Sun, agree, they look great but if you are moving around at all I find the sleeves end up slipping up and down and one is always having to reach up and adjust them. As you said if dealing with two little kids much easier to just have them up.
DeleteHow cute! I love that they can spend some time without mega-attention. I also love Kate's dress and like it better on her than worn off-the-shoulder, like the model. I tend to think baby Louis was nearby in his pram, perhaps with Nanny Maria. Somehow I think Kate wants to have him near her, he' s just 5 weeks old (today)!
ReplyDeleteExactly, Zora. I also suspect that Louis is nearby; perhaps in a private garden with Nanny Maria?? This allows Kate to enjoy some quality time with George and Charlotte, but she can relax knowing that the baby is nearby.
DeleteWonder if Kate's bag is monogrammed? And what her monogram would be?
ReplyDeleteNice to see them out doing normal family fun.
🌸 Anglophile in Ohio (state of my birth). 😊
DeleteIf it were me it would read in fancy BUT very readable script,
🌸Future Queen🌸
(and in smaller script right below that)
And don’t you ever forget it.👑
yep. 😉
Anglophile (in Ohio), if you go to the LMB webpage, they already have a picture of Kate at the top with a tote monogrammed C.E.W. pointing to her tote, perhaps for Catherine Elizabeth Windsor. Maybe they are spilling a little secret about what is actually monogrammed on Kate's tote. IDK, but for sure they didn't waste any time on the photo opportunity!! cc
Deletehttps://www.littlemakesbig.com/
Kate looks fabulous! I'm also curious if the tote has a monogram on it....
ReplyDeleteLovely dress. I wish she'd bring her off-duty style on-duty more often. I feel like her on-duty style in the past few years has gotten increasingly fussy and also expensive. This kind of summery dress is I feel more appropriate to many of the engagements she attends and would be something ordinary people could afford.
ReplyDeleteAnyone know the maker of Prince George’s polo top?
ReplyDeleteOh, they look wonderful! I loved this beautiful dress too.
ReplyDelete🌸 sweet photos. Amner Hall is just next door to the event. Louie is probably at home with Maria Teresa.
ReplyDeleteKate is probably giving George and Charlotte special attention since they have had a newborn as the center of attention for five weeks now.
Don’t hate me, but I don’t like Kate’s hairstyle at all.
There are easier and cuter ways for a casual hairstyle.
I don’t like that dress on Kate either. I think both the hairstyle and the dress (the way Kate wore it/not off the shoulder) look school marmish again.
I have never seen a hairstyle like that before. Never
until now.
Glad they got to get out and enjoy the outdoors and be around the neighborhood festivities.
Cute that Charlotte wore tennies without shoe laces.
Pink tennies. 😉
Mmmm, that's Kate's messy bun!! The dress is probably comfortable and convenient since she's still nursing, and her body is in transition. Can't hate you for your opinion. I'm sure it's coming from a good place.
Delete🌸 Wecy. 😊 Thanks for the sweet vote of confidence.
Delete🌸 P.S. and btw. 😊 The woman in the top photo to the right of Kate has a nice white t-shirt, nice jeans, nice sandals and a casual messy bun. THAT would look beautiful on Kate for a casual look.
DeleteDressy because of the quality of the individual pieces but still comfy and cool casual.
Jeans are very “in” again. Ha. As if they ever left.😉
I don't understand this sort of critique Surfer Girl. She was off at an event with her kids, not representing the firm or on duty. Nor could you fully see her outfit to evaluate it. How do you look crouching down? She appears to have her hair pulled back with one of those roll and tuck tools - logical as she likely wanted it out of the way and didn't have her hairstylist there to do it. Such a sad commentary on how we evaluate her that all can be said is she looks "school marmish" based on two fuzzy photographs. She seemed happy and comfortable and enjoying her time as a mom! Good on her and why we feel the need to critique her like a plastic mannequin I will never understand.
DeleteI think SG is as entitled to her opinion as you are Eloise, as it happens this time she doesn't like it but you do, so what's the big deal?
DeleteI wish Kate would apply "this hair out of the way style" to her engagements too.
🌸 awh. Thanks, Anett. :)
DeleteGood question Anett, what is the big deal? I don't feel like you need to leap to SG defense and put Eloise down. Eloise had a valid point that people are judging Kate on 2 grainy and not even full length photos, so how can you see the full effect of the dress etc? I don't think we should be elevating people who are critical in a negative way, isn't this just another form of bulling?
Deletelol, this is not bullying. SG gave her opinion - and she stated it very nicely. Having an opinion that differs from the majority is not the definition of bullying. We should not be using that term so liberally. It's demeaning to actual victims of bullying.
DeleteSG, Now, "a nice white t-shirt, nice jeans, nice sandals and a casual messy bun" is school marmish IMO. The uniform of thousands of women of every age and description. It can look nice depending on the description of the woman, and the brand of the jeans, but it is quite boring. I much prefer Kate's nice fresh and flattering summery dress.
Delete🌸 eh, I disagree. Natacha. Meghan wore white and jeans. It is considered a classic combo by many. 😉
DeleteI don't really understand the critcism either.
DeleteHonestly, there are opinions and there are bland comments about a mother who just gave birth. She wants to be comfortable and for a private outing with her children Kate looks incredible. Not many women would dress up for such a occasion.
They would go for the jeans and t-shirt instead.
I think after giving birth we shouldn't expect a mum to put on tight jeans. It's probably very nice to wear a dress which doesn't fit too much, especially when it's warm outside. I think every birth changes the body differently and to adjust to it it should be allowed for Kate to wear whatever she wants without being called "school marmish".
🌸 Jasmine. I agree. But there are really nice maternity Jeans available. And “school marmish”
Deletedenotes a style, not a curse word. 😉
While I think Kate looks fine, I think what makes the outfit look a bit "school- marmish" is that we've seen Kate wear jeans/jeggings & sports shoes/casual boots/casual wedge shoes to official work events (even while pregnant.) So seeing her "off-duty" kneeling on the ground in a dress wearing what looks like leather-soled shoes does bring to mind the school-marm style. (I agree "school-marm is a way to describe a style of dressing, not a nasty slur.)
DeleteSG, if you like Meghan's white half tucked shirt and ripped jeans better, I give up. We have opposite tastes. As for the jeans T-shirt combo, yes, it is a classic, perfect for running to the supermarket, walking the dog, picking the children at school...worn by everybody everywhere on very casual occasions. Not very exciting to me, but again, different tastes...
DeleteSG
DeleteI think we can draw one conclusion from this thread, you had better watch out what you say otherwise your name will get the most hits on the page:)
By the way, I have never heard school marmish before and it is in my head all the time now, it is on you!:)
🌸 lol, lol. Read you loud and clear, Anett. 😊
DeleteRest assured that school marmish has been used here before way more than once as has Victorian (and not in a good way), prairie woman, old-fashioned, etc. I am not going through the archives to prove it, but those occurred in bulk when Kate was wearing a lot of the mid-calf, high-necked dresses.
Hey. I have apologized before when necessary, more than once. But this time I stand by my commentary. I meant no harm.
And I can certainly can take the flack.
I am not the first person here to have to weather the storm, lol. Comes with the territory. 😉
🌸 Amen, Lizzie. 😊
DeleteSG
DeleteIf any style is "school marmish" it's wearing jeans and a shirt. Just saying. But to each their own.
Just what I kept saying, Jasmin! Glad I am not alone!
DeleteCertainly each to her own @Jasmin. But "school marm" is defined in dictionaries as having a prim and proper appearance. So in my view, wearing a dress and shoes with leather soles at an event when other ladies are not so dressed up,fits the dictionary definition better than wearing jeans at that kind of event ever will!
DeleteI wonder if Kate is wearing her favorite wedges. This looks like the perfect day for them, plus they would work well with her bag. I hope she's giving them a break and is wearing a beautiful pair of flats or sandals instead.
ReplyDeleteYou might be right about sandals Wecy. Looks like her shoes have leather soles. Also, looks like Kate is wearing a gold watch instead of the Cartier gifted more recently? Katherine USA
DeleteDress is already sold out, lol.
ReplyDeleteOooooo, I love her tote! Any chance it’s available in the US?
ReplyDelete🌸 US reader. :). Land’s End in the U.S. has some similar totes.
DeleteIn addition to "Lands End" that SG mentioned..... you can try LL Bean (they monogram) & for the Totes with leather trim, you can check Mark & Graham.com :)
DeleteLovely pictures. I love Kate's casual hair and dress. So cool and youthful. She must be a terrific mom. The children are adorable.
ReplyDeleteI love these photos, and the kids look adorable, but you know what I’m finding so weird? The only two photos from this event look like they are taken at the exact same time. All 3 of them are doing the same motions down to the second it looks like. From two totally different angles. Isn’t that odd? Just a weird coincidence?
ReplyDeleteN that is weird, maybe it was with a long distance lens from far away so he/she could adjust the angle in quick rapid fire shots? i.e. a professional photographer
DeleteYou could be right these were taken by a professional ali. I do think they were both taken by the same person. It's too much of a coincidence two people independently took two shots close in time (& took ONLY two shots.) Despite the similarity of poses, I think a small amount of time passed between the shots because people are sitting on the bench near PC in one shot & the bench appears vacant near her in the other (photo here has been cropped so vacant bench shows less than when this photo was published elsewhere.) But I don't think using a telephoto lens from far far away would allow a shot from behind Kate and one from her side to be taken in rapid fire succession. I haven't used telephoto lenses much but I think if the photographer was very far away, pretty sure he/she would have to physically move farther to change *angles* than if he/she were standing close by. (Like if a person is standing one foot from the front of a chair and wants to photograph the chair from the side, the person needs to move maybe 2 ft. But if a person is facing the front of a chair from 30 ft away and wants to capture a side view with a telephoto lens, that person has to move much farther than 2 ft...I've forgotten the geometry to figure out how far, but far!)
DeleteHee hee lizzie, I had not thought it through, I was trying to figure out how one person could move and take two shots quickly from behind her and then in front and not be noticed by Kate. But looking again one is really from the side and then from behind so I guess if they caught the side one and then took a couple of steps to be behind her they could have gotten the two snaps without being obvious:). Maybe just someone at the even also who thought it would be fun to take the pictures. I would not do that but I know people snap away all the time.
DeleteI love Kate!!! She looks amazing! A true princess in a Zara dress. She definitely doesn't need to wear designer clothes to stand out. Naturally beautiful and elegant! Can't wait to have her back.
ReplyDeleteFun photos! It's nice to see George in slightly more normal kid clothes and Charlotte's outfit is so cute. I like Kate's dress, too. Her hair doesn't wow me, but it's probably just a relief for her to have it up and out of the way for a day with the kids.
ReplyDeleteI agree. I love how George is dressed here. His hair is so much cuter, if not parted and straightened as for official occasions.
DeleteLove how Charlotte is wearing Bensimons. My daughter lives in them all summer.
Sometimes these candid photos are such a treat!
Kersti
Anon 08:07, I am glad you noticed that about George's hair! Thought maybe it was my imagination, but it does look much curlier/wavier....too cute! cc
DeleteHe looks adorable and I don't usually feel that way. Glad they can all look like regular people. :)
DeleteSuch sweet pictures!!! I noticed that no one around Kate was staring at them (like I would be) :) and realized that they probably get out and about a lot in Norfolk so people are used to seeing them. It must be nice for them to have neighbors who just let them get on about their business and be somewhat normal.
ReplyDeleteYes, except for the one who took this photo which has now made international news!
DeleteWhat lovely pictures!! The three of them look so casual and summery! Love Kate's look and how she keeps to her particular style when "off-duty". What a nice event to attend...great to expose her children to different venues especially with news that George is learning to ride a horse!!! Think that English country living suits Kate and her family very well; also enjoy seeing her friendship with Rose Cholmondeley! A nice little surprise post!! cc
ReplyDeleteKate looks like she is enjoying the summer activities. I'm sure the little ones had a blast. Such a mom. Love it! Hope we get a few more of these candid photos while she is on maternity leave.
ReplyDeleteI have a lot of feelings & thoughts welling up about this post & these photos... I really feel for Kate. The first month with a newborn can be so filled with transitions... taking care of a newborn is wonderful yet overwhelming, no matter how much help you have. It's a big adjustment time for the newly expanded family in terms of finding their new rhythm. Mom & Dad are trying to find their balance between all of their children, as well as with themselves & their new balance as a couple. It's a huge adjustment time for Mom. It's hard to not feel like yourself. You don't look like "yourself", you don't really feel like "yourself" & it's an adjustment everyday to make your way through the journey to find your family's new rhythm. I feel so bad when I read any less than positive comments about a new Mom & here it's about Kate. I know on this blog we are entitled to have & voice our opinions (positive or negative) but for me..... knowing this first month can be such an emotional transitional time..... I may be naive..... but I would hope that if we don't feel positive about how Kate looks, what she's wearing or how she's done her hair...... that perhaps those thoughts wouldn't be shared so candidly at this tender time. Having a newborn & trying to be out & about with one's older children is a big deal in itself. I'd hope we could all cut her some slack, just be delighted she's out with George & Charlotte & maybe just be supportive & hold any honest yet negative opinions for when she's had more time to adjust. During those first weeks.... it's all one can do to get out of the house, let alone look pleasing to anyone. Just my 2 cents.
ReplyDeleteThank you Becca for your heartfelt sentiments. I am in full agreement with you. To be honest, I worry deeply that criticism has become far easier to give than affirmation and acceptance in our society today.
DeleteSarah, there is a difference between true criticism and the simple sharing of an opinion. That's why discussion sections on blogs like these exist -- so that we can all share our differing thoughts. I think most of us who comment regularly understand that we all strive to share our opinions in a kind and respectful manner. Sharing that we don't like Kate's hair and/or outfit does not make us a part of a rude, harsh, or harmful society.
Delete🌸 Caroline and Becca. I hear what you are saying.😊
ReplyDeleteBut, in the 7 plus years of this blog, comments have been candidly given during times of Kate being pregnant, being postpartum, on casual outings and on official outings, etc. The past pages of this blog are full of comments at times like these. And many are even more candid. There was no malice aforethought here or bullying. Everyone has been giving opinions here from the git go. In fairness, my critique of Kate’s outfit was described by me in the terms I have used many times before because they match that recurrent style in my opinion. (Others have used the term “Victorian”) And, I gave an example of what, being worn by others there and by Kate herself at previous visits to Houghton, might have been viable choices.
Perhaps, more to your liking, the header here should say, “Following the Life AND STYLE of the Duchess of Cambridge When and If Only When and Then Again Only When...”, lol.
I know that after giving birth, my husband, who fortunately had a great sense of style, particularly at those times when I did not, lol, lovingly gave me his honest opinion on my post partum outfits. And I am glad he did. He certainly wasn’t being mean. And neither was I.
Honestly SG, I was coming from a different place this go round. I can't explain it.... but I feel this time is different for her. She seemed to gain more weight this time & post-partum...... I just am picking up a vibe that she's in a more delicate place.... Maybe it's just me.... but I'm in the zone of treating her with quiet reserve during this period. Just my 2 cents & why I have this opinion this time around. I always respect your opinions & everyones. Just felt I needed to express mine. xo
DeleteSG, It was the "School Marmish" comment that I felt bad about. She may very well be feeling school marmish at this time on her own. If you look at this pic compared to the one that Michael Middleton took of her after the birth of Prince George. Yes we talk about style here...... but in the name of all that we have learned from "Heads Together", perhaps this is the time to express dislike for the outfit or hairstyle, but stop just short of calling her "School Marmish"..... just a thought....
Delete🌸 Becca. You are kidding, right? “school marmish” is a reasonable adjective, not a curse word.
DeleteI understand feeling empathy for Kate, but I also understand that SG's comments were simply her opinion and that she wasn't being rude or degrading. This is a blog to share and discuss our opinions on Kate's life and style. Certainly, we should all strive to comment with kindness, but I think that speculating over what Kate may or may not be feeling at any given time, and then tempering our comments to not include any kind of critique is a little much. To me, that kind of defeats the purpose of even having a discussion section on a blog like this if we're not supposed to share a kindly-written critique.
Delete🌸 Thank you, Becca H. (I felt a tiny mini-mob vibe there for awhile, lol.) Making a mountain out of a mole hill. wait. not even a molehill. Just an oft-used-here adjective of a standard, defined style. Mild compared to other adjectives that have been used here before for sure, lol.
DeleteYes, SG. But your husband's candid opinion was made as a loving mate and was not broadcast internationally by strangers who may or may not be friendly or even understanding.
ReplyDelete🌸 THEN, 19:34, same with every critique that has ever been given here about Kate’s outfits. Post-partum ones etc. They have ALL been “broadcast internationally by strangers who may or may not be friendly or even understanding.”
Delete(I so hope I am allowed to respond here to Anon 19:34’s comment to me.)
Sorry, Anon, but that's exactly what any discussion section on a blog is -- opinions made by international strangers who may or may not be understanding.
Delete🌸 Exactly, Becca H. 😉
Delete🌸 I am surprised that there weren’t more photos of Kate and the children at the Houghton Horse Trials.
ReplyDeleteThe media knows that they often attend.
I am surprised that the photographers, with efficient but more average touristy-looking cameras, aren’t there at the Houghton event for its entirety in hopes of getting a lot of photos. Of course, they would have to use more discretion because of the children.
So just two photos seems nice, but still a curiosity. Maybe William and Harry have finally gotten through to them.
I miss the Cambridge's family
ReplyDeleteI'm looking forward for Trooping the Color
I hope to see at least the 4 older members of the family
Probably the deep discussion of what Kate's wearing (and we're just lucky that she felt like putting on clothes) is more related to the fact that we have had nothing to critique for so long and that SG is still looking for a suitable royal bridegroom so she can have a coat of arms.
ReplyDeleteI'm looking for the photo in which the family dresses up to go to Walmart, stretchy shorts and flip-flops included.
Now That photo I'd pay Good $$$ For!!!! lol :) Because I'd love it to bits!!! :) xo
DeleteOMG!! I'm watching CNN & they are reporting on an Official Threat By Isis Regarding A Plan To Attack Prince George!!!! :O
ReplyDeleteWow, I got chills listening to the reports on CNN out of New Scotland Yard, of the Terrorist who planned attacks on Prince George, changing his plea to guilty. We get so caught up in all the fun stuff, that it's easy to forget that this poor sweet family is an international target of evil!!! Even poor little George, as 3rd in line to The Throne!! I can't imagine how Will & Kate sleep at night, for fear of their children's safety!!! :(
ReplyDeleteBecca, I don't think any amount of money or bling or worship can make up for living in fear. How can their children act like other children when they must be the target of so many? If I had a child in their class, I would probably take him/her out just out of my fear that something might happen to them all. So easy to attack the children or extended family members and friends. It is an awful situation. I truly believe that Kate loves William despite his "position" and would be happier if they were wealthy but unknown. That is why I don't begrudge her time away from the public. Miss her but understand.
DeleteAllison, I agree on all counts. I guess one of the aspects of this sicko's detailed & supported plans, included the option of kidnapping! They emphasized that with Isis in retreat land wise.... that options of attacking or harming W&K's Family is of Huge Interest, because of the upset it would cause since they are so well loved & popular, yet are also part of The Monarchy & non political head of the country (therefore a better emotional target than attacking a member of Parliament). The emphasis was that to take or harm George would elicit the maximum trauma for The UK & Garner Upset around the world, to have something evil happen to a little 4yr old boy (who happens to be 3rd in line to The Throne!! :O Just like we don't know what they do behind the scenes work wise, we have No Idea of the dangers they have to live with & navigate on any given day! Evidently George is the hottest target.... more than The Queen or any other member of any Royal Family!!! Allison... I too had thought how wary I'd also be having a child or grandchild in school with their kids, because if there was a big attack aimed at George, other children & teachers could be caught in the crosshairs! I think that's only normal for that to cross one's mind, during these terribly dangerous times! I too, don't begrudge them their time away from the public eye... especially not taking photos of the kids out & about! These are real people living in real danger!!
DeleteAllison in US, I share your sentiments exactly. While I love to follow Kate and miss her when she is off, I don't envy her status, perks, or begrudge her time with her children; and as romantic and glamourous as it all appears, would certainly never trade places with her. In fact, I admire her all the more for showing such dignity, poise and grace in all aspects of her life. The dark side to their very public life is ever present, frightening and hard to imagine, just to be surrounded by security is reminder enough of the potential threat. But I admire her all the more for showing such dignity, poise and grace in all aspects of her life and trying to find some normalcy for her family in spite of it all. cc
DeleteI agree. I think the security issues for anyone who is well known either due to their wealth,politics or arts, is not in a good place in todays world. So I would never want to be a major member of any Royal Family or a major celebrity or a super rich person, I want to be under the radar, and there are a whole bunch of people that have lovely lives a bit under the radar. So for Kate and William there may be some sense of this already, trying to be a bit more hidden...I live in a city with some of the top wealthiest people in the world and they have found a way to keep their children and lives out of the press, but they do not have people insisting because some of their money comes from the public and because there is that odd political overlap with the BRF that unlike the BRF they are not expected to make their family lives an open book to the world. I think the BRF is in a very uncomfortable position.
DeleteI think Diana had to worry about the photographers, but Kate has to worry about real shooters. How do you allow a child the normal things in such an environment? And then you worry about how they would cope if you (Kate) were hurt.
DeleteAllison, that just gave me the willies, but it's very real for them! :(
DeleteI'm not trying to minimize today's dangers but there was political violence during the lifetimes of others too, including Diana. For example,issues with Ireland...
DeleteI hope I don't get criticisms for this but here goes.... Do you think garden parties are arduous, onerous events? I saw a photo of Prince William at a garden party with his grandmother today. Yes, I know that Kate is on "maternity leave" but, truthfully (and I am usually a BIG champion of Kate) I wondered why she couldn't have at least come to the party to support her spouse. They don't last that long in appearances, do they? Maybe it's because if she did that people would accuse her of only doing the "easy" stuff so it is better to just use the blanket statement "maternity leave." I have read articles that claim that Kate thought she returned to work too soon after Princess Charlotte's birth. I think though that it would mean a lot to the people who attend these garden parties to have seen her and it would be a good example that women are capable of being out and about for periods even with small children at home. We all know she has plenty of support for being away for a few hours--it was at Buckingham Palace, down the block from KP. (Unless she is at Amner for the whole period.)
ReplyDeleteI have just been wondering about it because William seems so "alone" in his duties now. And if that sounds old fashioned well the idea of a woman being sequestered out of the public for a long time after the birth of a baby sounds old fashioned too.
Fire away.
No attacks on your thoughts, but I feel women have the right to work ll the time, a little, or not at all (if their financial situation allows it o course). In just a few years, Kate will have nothing to do but work, so if she wants away time to form her family, then I think she deserves it. The RF members have been such incredible workers that it seems a bit unusual, I know.
DeleteWell, first of all, if she went, it wouldn't be to support William; she would be supporting The Queen. They all support the Queen when they fulfill any public engagement.
DeleteSecond, there were 7 royals at the garden party-The Queen, Duke of Cambridge, Princess Eugenie, Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Duke of Kent and Princess Alexandra. I'm not sure they could have used any more royals.
While I would love to see Kate because I am a fan, I think she is deserving of the same type of "maternity leave." I'm sure the people at the party would love to have seen her too. With that said, I think it would undermine the whole point of women being able to take time off with their baby. When I had my baby 17 years ago, family medical leave was a relatively new thing here in the US. I worked for a large construction/engineering firm. I had to endure snide remarks during the end of my pregnancy from both male and female coworkers. My female supervisor pointed out that she only took nine days off from work when she had her baby because she was "lucky" enough to have her baby on Friday night and there was a holiday on the following Monday. Her male supervisor told me that women had been having babies forever and that back in the "day", women would give birth in the field and just continue working. Other than the first few weeks after of giving birth naturally (longer with a C-section), I don't look at maternity leave as medical. I look at it as more of a time to bond with your baby, adjust to a new addition to your family, and get your bearings. Could she leave the baby for a few hours, absolutely -- I did on a few occasions during my 12 week leave, but should I have been expected to leave my baby to go to my job, even for a few hours -- absolutely not. Just another perspective.
DeleteHope from USA
Jo, the job is William's, after all. He did it. He should be given credit for it and we could be conscious of how supportive Kate is to him, because we so often see them together.
DeleteKate is entitled, as every mother is, to some time to get well after birth and take care of the baby.
Garden parties are indeed strenuous IMO. They have to meet 2000 people, have a word for everyone, standing all the time, they cannot even eat anything! Nice to be invited, not so nice to give the party.
I really feel uncomfortable with comments suggesting that being on maternity leave is eschewing work.
Prince Louis is just over five weeks old. It seems unfair on any child to expect a Mum to return to work so soon.
Deleteim sure she is supporting her husband all the time and does not need to stand next to him for him to know this! this IS his job and its been his job all his life. she can and should have a maternity leave.
DeleteI would never begrudge Kate her time with her children. They will be grown in a blink of an eye. She is making the most of this special time.
DeleteI find this conversation very much needed, especially in light of all of the mental health work that W&K, H&M support. Kate has focused so much on how early good mental health can begin. Through the work & awareness that she has brought to the fore, we have learned that it begins as far back as in the womb & with the good mental health & care of the mother for herself. That moves on to the mother tending to her own mental health once she has the baby & as she is bonding with her new baby, while integrating the baby into an already established family. Would we really expect her to toss all this knowledge & these values aside? Even if a formal event is being held close to home, it still involves all the fuss of planning & prepping & then attending. I think Natacha captured the difference between those who are invited to these garden parties & those royals who are working them. Kate is treated like a Barbie Doll. Much of her popularity is focused on what she wears & how she looks. During those first 12 weeks after having a baby, would any of us want to put ourselves through that microscope, if we didn't have to? She already attended the wedding & will likely attend trooping. She was sliced & diced at the wedding & she will get sliced & diced when she likely attends trouping.... I don't doubt that she could do it (unless emotionally she just can't) but who would want to put themselves through that, when instead they have been allotted time to recover from having the new baby & go through ones own adjustment & recovery. Just my thoughts.
DeleteOf course Kate could manage the party. I am sure if the Queen was suddenly taken ill and they needed somebody to step up, Kate would have. Having said that, like every mom Kate deserves to have this time to focus solely on her new born and her other kids.
DeleteI actually think when high profile women like Kate doesn’t use their maternity leave it gives ammunition to other bosses when they suggest things like, I know you are on maternity leave but how strenuous can it be to answer some emails or come in for some meetings.
William is hardly alone at a garden party with his beloved grandmother, five other royals, and a few thousand tea drinkers!
DeleteAlso people remarked how tired Kate looked at the wedding. If she is breastfeeding it is really important to get plenty of rest and maybe they decided one family representative was enough at the garden party. Times have changed. When the Queen's first two children were very young she went to Malta for several months and left them behind in UK. It was only when her father became ill with lung cancer that she came home and resumed royal duties.
DeleteI love what Kate is wearing and I love her hair!!!!! I even bought a hair twist clip this week I love it so much. Super fun to see these three out having fun! The kids look so darling and casual! I can't wait for Trooping the Colour, and I am quite certain Louis will not be there. I think they wait until the child is old enough to see and enjoy it!
ReplyDeleteI love every post!!! Especially informal ones with the kiddos!!! Thanks Charlotte!!!
ReplyDeleteHi Jo from Arizona! I completely understand your comments and those of everyone else when it comes to maturnity leave.
ReplyDeleteI’m a stay at home Mom, expecting my 3rd child. With my first child there was no way I could’ve gone back to work or even worked until at least 3-4 months after birth. That’s how much pain I was in! Lol 😂 The Doctor was upset with me because I wouldn’t sit down and rest-reguardless of the pain I was in! It’s like a Momma thing. Any other Mommas have a hard time sitting down to rest?!! I finally sequestered myself in my room with w the TV and my baby. That’s how I got better.
The 2nd one was much easier and I was back on my feet w/in a 1-2weeks.
Now we will see with number 3!
My thoughts that if I was a working mom like Kate is that I would be spending every spare minute with my children and new baby. Baby’s and children grow so fast! I have my whole life to work. What’s 10 years of my time devoted to raising my children and enjoying it compared to working for the next 60 yrs? ( Kate will be working for the next 60 yrs! Not me! I should be dead by then or still on this blog!)
Kate will be serving her country for life. We at least get to retire at 65-70.
Jo, I was so with you on your thoughts with “why isn’t she at the garden party?😔) But if it was me I would choose to stay home and hide from the world. And when MY 3rd baby comes, apart from saving energy for a BFF’s wedding, I plan to do exactly that! Hide and enjoy my growing family. To give you a chuckle; I have a husky named Koda, a kitten named Indiana Jones (Indy), 5 chickens and a rooster-HeyHey, Stella,Rosie, Lady Gray, Thing 1 and Thing 2 (we can’t tell them apart!), Laina-4, Rheagan 19 months, and #3 to come in 6 weeks and a husband! That’s my dear family. ❤️
If I could work and keep my children in-line I would. But I’m choosing to not have a ton of money in the bank and be w my kids. And then I will work my butt off once they are older/in school.
I hope that was an encouraging message! It really just depends on the Mom having babies and what she feels she can handle mentally and physically. And for those ladies who went back to work right after baby “You are Amazing!” and I hope you still got to rest in between!
Rachel Chavez from Bellingham WA USA
Hi Jo from Arizona! I completely understand your comments and those of everyone else when it comes to maturnity leave.
ReplyDeleteI’m a stay at home Mom, expecting my 3rd child. With my first child there was no way I could’ve gone back to work or even worked until at least 3-4 months after birth. That’s how much pain I was in! Lol 😂 The Doctor was upset with me because I wouldn’t sit down and rest-reguardless of the pain I was in! It’s like a Momma thing. Any other Mommas have a hard time sitting down to rest?!! I finally sequestered myself in my room with w the TV and my baby. That’s how I got better.
The 2nd one was much easier and I was back on my feet w/in a 1-2weeks.
Now we will see with number 3!
My thoughts that if I was a working mom like Kate is that I would be spending every spare minute with my children and new baby. Baby’s and children grow so fast! I have my whole life to work. What’s 10 years of my time devoted to raising my children and enjoying it compared to working for the next 60 yrs? ( Kate will be working for the next 60 yrs! Not me! I should be dead by then or still on this blog!)
Kate will be serving her country for life. We at least get to retire at 65-70.
Jo, I was so with you on your thoughts with “why isn’t she at the garden party?😔) But if it was me I would choose to stay home and hide from the world. And when MY 3rd baby comes, apart from saving energy for a BFF’s wedding, I plan to do exactly that! Hide and enjoy my growing family. To give you a chuckle; I have a husky named Koda, a kitten named Indiana Jones (Indy), 5 chickens and a rooster-HeyHey, Stella,Rosie, Lady Gray, Thing 1 and Thing 2 (we can’t tell them apart!), Laina-4, Rheagan 19 months, and #3 to come in 6 weeks and a husband! That’s my dear family. ❤️
If I could work and keep my children in-line I would. But I’m choosing to not have a ton of money in the bank and be w my kids. And then I will work my butt off once they are older/in school.
I hope that was an encouraging message! It really just depends on the Mom having babies and what she feels she can handle mentally and physically. And for those ladies who went back to work right after baby “You are Amazing!” and I hope you still got to rest in between!
Rachel Chavez from Bellingham WA USA
🌸 lol, lol. ❤️ what a dear family you have, Rachel.
Delete(I have an uncle who lives in Bellingham. It is very beautiful there.)
As a chicken lover, I love your names! We currently have four geese, which are called Goosie, Goosie, Goosie, and Very Mean Goosie.
DeleteRachel, I just loved everything you said. Your humor is infectious! I loved your list, including animals, kiddos & Hubby! lol :) You are so right, that it is such a personal decision for each Mom, about what they choose to do...... & some must go to work. I feel blessed that I was able to do both. I needed to work (after having my 3 children & during my 4th pregnancy) while my hubby was in his 15yrs of Medical Training. Then I was able to stay home with my family eventually after I my 4th. As they got older, I went back to Post-Grad Film School & was still able to be an active hand on Mom, for the younger ones. Even though I'm now back in The Film Industry, I still look back on those years of my kids growing up as the best years of our lives as a family! :) It goes by so fast!!! I'm even experiencing it now with my grandchildren! I want to just freeze them in place! Over Memorial Day, I taught my grade school grand daughters about "Filming" (complete with terms like "lock it up", "rolling", "action" & "cut".) We shot the most adorable footage & by the end they were creating their own stories & films. We then went indoors for "post-production" & edited the footage! It was just magical.......... :)
DeleteRachel's chicken's names had me laughing, but your geese names just cracked me up!! lol :) xo
Delete🌸 lol, lol, Allison. 😊
DeletePrince William will go to the Isle of Man on the 6th June (which I find interesting because I don't know much about the Isle yet). His workload seems to have picked up since the birth of Louis. I thought he would take a longer break so I'm a bit suprised about his last weeks.
ReplyDeleteI'm very much looking forward to seeing the Duchess again in an official capacity but I can understand her need (and simple want) to be a fulltime mom atm. A few months off is really not much. Most women I know (with normal everyday jobs) took 3 months to a year. Some a couple of years.
As soon as Meghan starts her work after the honeymoon, we all might be a bit more patient for Kate's restart in working - myself included.
As for the dress/hair-do in this outing. The opinions (as always) vary greatly. Some find it oldfashioned or to "school-marmish", some love it. For me, as it is an off-duty style, I think she looks very healthy, happy and summery. I like her hair and the dress for this occasion. I love knowing that the kids have some normal days with normal activities. Of course I love pictures of those events - with a bit of a guilty conscience- but I hope that the children don't notice the photographers and can just relax.
I really enjoy this blog. Very accurate and respectful of the Duchess and her family. Did you see the pictures of Princess Charlotte sneezing at the wedding? Very adorable!
ReplyDeleteCharlotte also sneezed last year on the balcony at Trooping. Whether or not Kate is allergic to horses, Charlotte may be.
DeleteIt may have nothing to do with horses. Just to add another possibility about Charlotte's sneezing that day...it could have been the sunshine that caused her to sneeze. I know that this may sound peculiar, but for some of us (myself included), sunlight causes us to sneeze. Scientifically, it is referred to as reflexive sneezing or the photic sneeze reflex (PSR). It occurs in 18-35 percent of the population. Emerging from dim light into sunlight or turning one's face toward the sun often triggers the sneeze reflex. I know that whenever I get out of my car or step outside of my house, this triggers the photic sneeze reflex. I usually have to sneeze between 3-4 times consecutively. There is a genetic link as well to this reflex. Two of my children sneeze every time they emerge into sunlight. My oldest, who is 4, tells everyone that "she's allergic to the sun, just like mommy." I've tried to explain to her that it is not an allergy, but she automatically associates sneezing with colds, allergies, or dust. And it is certainly true that all of those things can cause sneezing. But, it will be a while before she truly understands why she sneezes in the sunshine. At her most recent appointment with the pediatrician, she told her doctor, "I'm allergic to the sun, but my mommy is more allergic to the sun than me. You need to check on her too." The pediatrician just smiled, and asked, "What do you think would help your mommy?" My daughter thought about her answer and responded, "She needs a shot in her arm and you need to tell her to stay away from the sun."
DeleteI forgot but the sun used to make me sneeze a lot when I was younger. Thanks for the information!
DeleteYes, I also react to the sun, but more with a chill and a sore throat. The doctor has called that an allergy. Charlotte could also be reacting to all the flowers around her, though I don't think that was an issue on the balcony.
DeleteIs it possible to post photos here? I found Kate’s dress at my local Zara store! It’s definitely not as cute as it looks on their site and the belt is black whereas the dress is light blue with navy. I was going to buy it but it wasn’t what I thought. I have a photo of me trying it on though!
ReplyDeleteI hope there is a way---I would like to see it.
DeleteI adore kate's dress and hair here! wow
ReplyDeleteAn interesting piece of news of which I know only a little - there was to be a charity ball at Guildhall for King's Think Tank 'My Mind Matters Too' which was to benefit several mental health charities including Place2Be, a charity linked to Kate. The ball which was to have been held on June 5 has been cancelled. I don't know why. Perhaps for lack of interest one supposes although there could be other reasons.
ReplyDeleteAs for a garden party - I have faint but fading hopes Kate will attend one later in the summer. I never use the word 'maternity leave' for Kate because she doesn't work sufficient hours to earn that right - she is on a maternity break which is fine but she works so little compared to the schedules of most working mums I don't think fair analogies can be made. A few hours out of her many free weeks doesn't seem too much to ask. But I expect we will see her at the Trooping and almost certainly at Wimbledon.
As for her working for the next sixty years!! - I don't see that happening. William and Kate aren't like our present queen - and just because she has worked into her nineties doesn't mean that they will - or even should. I fully expect them to abdicate when George, assuming he remains an heir reaches an age - in his forties most likely - to take the crown. Just because abdication is a dirty word to the queen doesn't mean it will be to the present generation - and it is clear their sense of duty is quite different from hers.
I don't like the term "she's not earned it". I don't know how it works in the UK, but here everyone, working or not, has a right for months payed leave because that first time with the child doesn't have to do with getting "baby vacation". It's a time where the body gets time to heal and the parent and child time to bond. No matter if you worked alot or nothing before giving birth, both those things are needed.
DeleteKate would ordinarily be entitled to 26 weeks regular maternity leave if she is considered employed - that counts the time she took off before the baby was born so at this time she has used approximately eight weeks. It is possible to take another 26 weeks but then you have used your entire benefit.
DeleteBut it's almost impossible to treat royals, particularly sporadically working royals in the same way as even self-employed women. Because the women who have had babies are so concerned with how much leave they can get and how best to take it, I don't like to apply the same consideration to a woman who can basically take as much time off as she wants, when she wants it. That doesn't mean that she isn't entitled to time off - just that normal rules on maternity leave don't easily apply to her. You might say, to earn leave, you have to have something to take leave from - so if you did no work as you mention - the rules would not apply, although you might be entitled to other benefits.
I think we've had this discussion multiple times you and I and we clearly see it differently, maybe because of our different countries. I see it as time put towards something and you see it as time taken off something. And that different perspective gives very different points of view. Coming from a country where financed leave for both parents is one of the cornerstones of our child- and healthcare will obviously colour my view on this!
DeletePossibly the answer is as simple as the evening of June 5 is the night before the huge Trooping extravaganza on June 6. I believe it is usually later in June, closer to the Queen's official birthday, June 21st. Perhaps the later date was not considered or was not cleared with BP first. Likely many of those philanthropists who would attend the ball would also be involved/attending Trooping activities.
DeletePoor scheduling, at any rate.
Did the information about the gala indicate whether or not the event had been rescheduled? Usually some hint as to the reason for a cancellation is offered, as well. It would be helpful to have more information before forming any conclusions.
Re: my comment about the Guild Hall gala. Of course I mixed the date of William's official trip to the Isle of Man on June 6 with the Trooping date of June 9. I wish Trooping Was in two days!
DeleteI do think it would be helpful to have more information about the proposed gala-reason given for cancellation and/or any plans for rescheduling. This is a very busy time for royal activities and I think another date for the gala would be more successful.
I would appreciate it if this correction of my comment is allowed. (assuming that my original comment is published)
I could not find any information about the reason for cancellation or plans for rescheduling. The My Mind Matters, Too effort apparently comes from a group based at Kings College. The host was to be the local Sheriff and a Sheriff's charity was one of three groups that was to have received proceeds from the gala. There was to have been a cocktail hour and dinner, as well as a performance by dancers from the Royal Ballet. The benefit was scheduled at the historic London Guild Hall. I think the tickets were around 70+ pounds individual and 800 pounds per table and the money was non-refundable with cancellation. In other words---The Charities Got the Money Anyway! Probably more because the caterer and other staff would not have to be paid--at least not the full amount.
DeleteI could find no indication that a royal representative had been expected to attend. As I mentioned earlier, these sorts of appearances are generally booked many months ahead in order to make all the arrangements that are necessary when a royal guest is expected. Another possibility: many different organizations and individuals were involved in the planning and execution of this proposed benefit. Anything could have happened with any of a number of key factors to cause the cancellation. Cancellation due to the lack of a royal guest is the least likely.
I agree that Kate does not make the appearances that many other royals do but I find it a bit odd how these people (RF) are expected to act. Because of her work, Kate has to live a life other than she may prefer---a very glamorous life, but one with diminished choices. For example, she has a terrific nanny but she has to have one so the kids can be managed when she must be elsewhere. She can't stay at home in her jammies or cram the kids into three car seats and let them scream while she sails through McDonald's. Her children are expected to be seen at a very early age and to act nearly perfectly. She can't curse at William in public if she's in a bad mood, and she's barely allowed to have a contemplative look on her face. I understand that she has enormous opportunities open to her, like visiting the members of a hit play, but she can't decide to make a career change and BE in a play.
ReplyDeleteThe US is abysmal when it comes to maternity leave, and most workers are lucky if they get the rest of the day off. While I think many people would love to change places so they would be free of worry over finances, those three children are free people and deserve to be put first.
Like Rachel says, it's a personal decision, but women who take time away from work should never be criticized. I'm just amazed that it was not OK for Kate just to have marry William just because she loves him but rather she is expected to be a workhorse to earn her position. If she chose to make no visits or appearances ever, would the country in unison abolish the monarchy? If so, then it may be better than pouncing on moms of new babies with small children for needing some solid away time. What if a garden party takes place during nursing time? Right before naptime? Kate has to plan her outfit, because repeats are not to occur too often. She has to have her hair done, makeup, kids organized, ...
I would like to see her out everyday but it may rightly have to wait until the kids are at least 10 years older.
Wow, Allison you just hit so many marks & expressed them all so well! Your points really do put things in perspective. I must admit to loving your McDonald's Drive Thru image, along with giving William a dressing down! Ahhhh the joys of our regular people lives!! lol :) xo
DeleteI admit that I don't care too much about my appearance because I work at home, but once I went to Taco Cabana and I guess I looked so pathetic that I was given my meal for free! It really makes me laugh and I've tried as Harry said, to up my game a bit. :) But there are so many comparisons of women leaving the hospital with their baby that don't look at all like Kate -- yet we would criticize any imperfection that she might present. She's very game, but I think part of it is a plan to show the whole family often enough to avoid photographers sneaking around like they did with Diana and the boys.
DeleteThe demand for children of royals to be seen to avoid invasive methods of the paps is blackmail...a threat of a harmful action if one does not provide what is demanded. I don't think the royals should have to put their children on display, other than family and formal occasion photographs. There are plenty of those. Especially not in response to threats.
DeleteIt has been demonstrated that the more photos offered the more are demanded. It reminds me of the argument that the more guns available the fewer will be killed.
Julia, I do agree with you on the Queen's sense of duty, and I wonder if that stems from the RF's incredible actions during WWII. Even as an American I tear up when I read about how brave the family was.
ReplyDeleteAllison, it really is very moving! It was really Victoria & Albert that set the stage for working hard to help & make things better for their people. (prior to them, The Royals were rather self absorbed & self indulgent) The strong work ethic & sense of duty, established by Victoria & Albert, was passed on & evolved even more during WWI with George V & Queen Mary. Then it grew even more (as you so aptly pointed out) during WWII with George VI & Queen Elizabeth. HM has definitely inherited & carried on this incredible work ethic!! :)
DeleteI returned to this post after a few days and I have to say that some of the comments are disheartening.
ReplyDeleteI'm afraid that Kate cannot win. If she wears jeans, she's not dressing appropriately for her age and status. If she wears a dress that is both summery and in style, it isn't quite right either. Perhaps she isn't up to wearing snug clothing...perhaps she was going to spend time with her hosts and wanted to wear a dress rather than a pair of jeans...perhaps she wore it just because she woke up and felt like it.
Considering the current headlines regarding Prince George, I don't begrudge Kate ANYTHING. And certainly not spending time breast feeding and bonding with a newborn! I would not trade places with her for all the tea in China.
Thank you royalfan for expressing, so succinctly, what many of us have been struggling to express! xo
DeleteXo Becca ☺
DeletePerceptions and expectations on back to work depends so much on where one lives and on the generation. So for women whom started their careers in the early seventies the expectation was that if they choose to work after marriage the family would be looked after and managed unaided to the standard of non working women and that in order to maintain traction in their careers the return had to be rapid. Prior to this women mostly lost their jobs once they married. Certainly a far cry from someone starting a career now. So comments will be coloured by where one fits in the time gradation. Added to this where one works also changes expectation and perception. Where I work employs about 100 women of all ages from 14year old school girls to 75 years old. We are entitled to 12weeks paid maternity leave, job held for 12 months, return to work can be part time or original hours and return to original hours unless otherwise negotiated when the child or last child starts school. So I have trouble with the expectation of an appearance at a work engagement for a Mum of a five week old baby, whereas others do not. I also feel in these days of flexible working hours and many people now able to work remotely from home it is about time we moved from the very very old fashioned notion of a Royal only works if there is a photographed appearance............ really in this day and age! I have been happy to see that the various Royal Houses are now publishing on their social media accounts information and photographs of other royal work related events such as meetings an unannounced visits.
ReplyDeleteLisa Genova, a Harvard educated neuroscientist, has written a novel which deals in part with the vexed question of the balance of work and family. The book is ‘Left neglected’. Well worth a read.
Thank you Libby for sharing your insightful thoughts on this hot topic. I agree with you that it's a shame that people often think the royals are only working when they appear at an event. There is so much behind the scenes work that needs to be done, before any engagement happens. In the spirit of The Queen's point, that the BRF must be seen to be believed...... I'm glad KP has started to share some pics of behind the scenes meetings. In the current climate, when many people (both men & women) are able to work remotely. I would hope people would think of this regarding the royals. The royals & their teams will be working this way too. By the time a royal appears at an engagement, or some project supported by The Foundation is kicked off, so very much work will have already taken place! In their line of work, they are really never off duty. No matter where one is based, there is always thinking & planning for upcoming appearances, engagements, events & projects. I know in my line of work, I always have about 3+ film projects percolating & am cultivating them daily with others in the industry. By the time we arrive on set, there can have been 2-3+ years of work already done to get a film fully greenlit (investments, script, location, budget finalized) then it's on to pre-production (hiring Directors, Cinematographers, Casting, Crew etc. Then the film is actually shot (called principle photography) & after it wraps it goes on to post-production (film & sound editing) it's where the film is really made. It's a true creative long term process requiring lots & lots of planning (ergo what a producer does). Then it's on to promotion & distribution. So by the time a film makes it into a movie theater.... it may have taken several years from start to finish. That's only in my industry. With many other industries they have their own version of long term projects & so do The Royals. As The Cambridges & Sussexes reminded us at The Forum, they are in this for life & thus are able to work on the long game with these projects & visions. Sorry so long winded, but I think sometimes we are "looking too close to the forest to see the trees!"
DeleteOne thing to remember though Becca is that if the majority of royal work is behind the scenes how do the royals who do hundreds of engagements - and the queen who does engagements nearly every day including going through the red boxes possibly manage - there wouldn't be enough hours in the day for them.
DeleteSo the plain truth is, royals like Kate and William and Harry simply aren't working full-time and not nearly as hard as the elder royals - this means they have a great deal of free time at their disposal. The fewer engagements you do - the less there is to do to prepare behind the scenes - that only makes sense.
As for Kate being smart enough to know what her children need - think of all the mums that are working to pay for Kate's security and other royal expenses - there is a public funding aspect here - are these mums less entitled to time with their children than Kate is - especially since Kate will always have massive amount more time at her disposal than these mums, masses more to spend on help including a full-time nanny, massive amounts to spend on her children having the best possible education, the best of medical care, the best of everything - not for Kate having to fight to get her children in schools close to home, to find help so that she can work, to do the housework when she comes home from work.
Kate is an incredibly privileged woman. I remain a royalist but only if royal privileges and time is a privilege - only if the taking of public funds is balanced by giving back at a substantial level. I'm not a royalist because William and Kate are pretty people and fun to watch - my interest is in what they do - and the small work even more than the big glossy tours and glamourous appearances.
I'm thinking more of those mums whose children might be helped by Place-2-be who would have gotten more funds from that cancelled gala. I don't know why it cancelled but I suspect if a royal patron had been available, it might not have. Does Kate really care about mental health - we want to think so, but her doing just a little would do so much.
Why should hard-working mums, who may even decide not to have a third child because they can't afford it or have the time to take off to work - be grateful to Kate to know what HER children need - they may be spending more time trying to provide what their own children need. What they could be grateful for - and the only thing - is what Kate gives to her nation. Many of them are starting to question that - question the work royals do and the reasons why they are doing it - interest in the royals is by no means as great as when I was young - people like the idea of a royal family - but want to feel it is involved in their lives and that is what is being questioned.
It's always pay now, or pay later. When Kate works, she is working for her children - she is providing for their future - like any other working mum - because otherwise, they may find they don't have the future they were destined for.
The cancelled gala is very disturbing and I agree that it would have been better to save the important function with one evening visit.
DeleteOne problem that I see in society is that there is a class of people in the UK and the US and many other places who live at an upper level, who pay dresses that cost $4000 (or even $200), and who have no claim to he privilege. Why is Pippa so wealthy, for example? How does she help the world? Why are all of the friends so wealthy? I read a lot about whether the "dollar value" of the RF justifies their existence but I don't know the answer --- does tourism, etc. pay their way? In a democratic society, I agree that citizens should not suffer to pay for the RF. My attitude is that if the RF is wanted with all the trappings that are "magic," as Harry says, then if you can get people to sign up, they must be allowed some special privileges to make up for the "carnival display" atmosphere. The reason I follow Kate is because she seems like a genuinely nice person, so I feel free to enjoy her clothes, jewelry, and travels. Hope this isn't too convoluted to make sense.
I need to clarify why we would be grateful to Kate for taking care of her family's mental health---only because it would avoid the disaster of Diana.
DeleteBecca, just as a side - many of us with careers are in it for the long haul as well. We are also thinking of the long game. However, most of us can’t take our foot of the pedal - meaning we can’t bounce in and out of our careers because we want to take a break to have kids. If we do, we fall behind. Royals don’t have that problem and that’s okay. It’s a privilege that comes with their position. I think the point is to acknowledge they are very privileged people and not make their life out to be some sort of sacrifice.
DeleteGood points anon 5:02. So far as maternity leave being a sign of lack of commitment to one's career, by US standards my workplace has generous leave policies-- sixteen total weeks of *paid* leave split before & after giving birth for those who have worked for the company at least 30 hours a week for 6 months. The same leave is offered after adoption. So far as I can tell, there isn't a negative connotation directly associated with taking leave. However, taking leave often does mean co-workers must take on at least part of the workload of the colleague who is on leave. Business needs don't stop because an employee has a baby. And even if there is extra money available to hire a temp to cover for the person who is being paid her full salary while on leave, temps often can't step into a professional position without extensive training or supervision by a colleague. So salaried colleagues often do extra work without receiving extra pay. When other folks take on the work and projects that normally would be done by the missing colleague, those folks get credit for the work they've done. That seems only fair. The on-leave colleague isn't penalized but she also doesn't get credit for work she did not do. So taking leave often does slow down career advancement in the real world. I'm not sure how it could not unless we don't give credit to the people--including working women with older children--who did extra work to cover for the person on leave. Assuming work quality is equivalent, who should be promoted---Person A who did 10 major projects and took maternity leave or Person B who did 15 major projects during the same time period and didn't have a baby so she didn't take leave? I'd say B. I don't see how anyone could argue A is more deserving of promotion than B although I do think paid maternity leave is a good thing. But as that example shows, solving the career question isn't as simple as making paid maternity leave available. While I think paid maternity leave probably IS helpful for mom and baby, so far as I know, there isn't any empirical evidence that countries with more generous maternity leave policies have lower rates of mental illness in childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood groups. One study has shown in old age, women who had paid maternity leave tended to be less depressed. But the benefits documented for children tend to be physical-- more well baby checkups, better prenatal care, longer breast-feeding, etc. Those are certainly good things but I think we need to be careful assuming an automatic connection exists between longer maternity leave and the overall mental health of children. And it seems many are defending Kate's leave by seeming to suggest her children's mental health would be affected if she returned to work even on a sporadic basis.
DeletePerhaps one really needs to have children in order to understand the parental bond with our offspring. There is such a difference in the comments by those who do and those who don't. I have noticed this for a long time, and this acrid debate springs up every time Kate is fully involved with her children. I have a hard time understanding the need to send her back to work when clearly she is not ready. She was radiant and active when she was pregnant. Now she appears a bit solemn and in need of time with her young ones. Parents understand this, because they have rung these changes themselves.
DeleteThe First Lady of the US is being hammered in the press for taking time to recover from surgery. Why isn't she visible, they cry. Her spokesperson has described meetings and work that the First Lady is accomplishing. This is a similar syndrome to the 'send her out in public even though she is only a few weeks post partum' insistence. Why must we lay eyes on our Kates and Melanias every single day? Why do they not have the right to take care of their basic needs, and those of their families?
DeleteHowever dedicated she is to her career, it is very hard for a mother to leave her infant with others and return to work. We need to be more understanding of the incredible bond between parent and child.
Julia from Leo, Thank you for sharing your perspective. I understand what you are saying. :)
DeleteAnon 05:02, you are right! There is a difference between regular people's lives & royal lives! :)
DeletePatricia, I have two young kids myself (4 and 2). I am not advocating Kate return to engagements anytime soon. Louis is only a few weeks old. I wouldn’t mind if she took the whole next year or two rather slow. She should focus on her young children if that’s what she wishes to do. I was just speaking to the long haul of her work. I like Kate a lot and think she’s a great mom. But it does make me sad (as a woman her age) that she is always praised for being a supportive wife, a good mom, and her good taste in clothes. As a woman, it’s disheartening that she’s known mainly for these things rather than something she has done as an individual. But maybe that will come later. - anon 5:02
DeleteAnon 5:02, I was not speaking to you, nor to women like those in my own family who must juggle work and family, except to say that there is a strong push and pull for the latter. I am concered about a lack of understanding among women who have not experienced this dilemma. Even though it is not in their lives, they need to develop empathy for the tremendously strong and able women who deal with it. And by the way, Charlotte’s next post makes Kate’s work commitment clear. She promises that it will be one of a series.
DeleteMy thoughts about whether a mother should work are "if she financially has to" and "if she wants to." I feel no one will care for a person's children the way that person does but children often enjoy their time away from mom, too. Going back to the mental health issue, if Kate is smart enough to know what she/her children need, then everyone should be grateful. Again, maternity leave is awful in the US and often considered a sign of weakness and lack of commitment to one's career. Working from home has been a boon to many families.
ReplyDeleteAs far as picking Kate's appearance apart she looks incredible. She does look fuller than usual and it looks really good on her, but I imagine she will be battling to get back to her tiny frame. I think Rose Cholmondeley looks gorgeous and wish Kate could be a little heavier. But she's obviously healthy at any weight. :)
As far as getting one's money's worth with Kate, there are fewer appearances but more children to look at. I have wondered why the Queen stays so busy. She must enjoy it more than she does not being busy.
🌸Yay. Prince Louie will truly have a cousin close to his age in Pippa’s child. I had thought at first that the pregnancy was only rumor but today photos surfaced and.... Pippa is definitely pregnant. 🤗
ReplyDeleteI think the whole next generation is emerging---Kate's three, Pippa's, Zara's two, and hopefully some for Meghan and Eugenie (who is wearing the cutest dresses lately!). And then it extends to Pippa's brother-in-law and his fiance. Sounds like the beginning of a Jane Austen novel.
ReplyDeleteThere was a memorial today for the eight young people who died at London Bridge and the most the royal family could muster was the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester - Really! They're nice people but every similar memorial that has been held in Europe - and sadly there have been too many of them have been represented by top royals - in Spain, in Belgium, in the Netherlands, in Sweden, where Victoria actually shed tears for those who died. And the top royals have attended the year memorial as well.
ReplyDeleteAnd not a single top royal in Britain could find time to attend this! Every politician was there but where is the royal family. This is so different from what happened in the war when the royals were the leaders in moral support for the nation. I'm going to use a strong word - disgraceful! And why should we worry about if ISIS has a photo of George when the royals can't even be bothered to mourn the promising young lives of people who were stabbed to death when living their daily lives. Because it is the public - not the highly protected royals who security costs a small fortune who have been the victims of these attacks.
The values of this simply seem wrong. I'm no longer certain why there is a royal family - to hold expensive weddings and have fancy snaps in Hello! That's not my idea of royalty.
I take your point Julia, and I understand your outrage. I think this was a missed opportunity. A more senior member of the royal family should have attended the memorial service as well. As you said, other royal families have been in attendance at similar memorials in Europe, so the BRF should do no less. There should always be some balance between expensive weddings and grand displays, such as Trooping, on the one hand and service grounded in compassion and caring for and commitment to people who sustain the privileged lives of the royals on the other. I am interested in and enjoy following all aspects of the British royal family, but I agree that they should be held to a higher standard. Their existence should always reflect their respect for the trust the nation places in them.
DeleteI think the Gloucesters should be seen as senior royals. The royal family does not operate by age and experience so much as by proximity to the throne. That seems a shame. The younger generation are still in training. The Gloucesters have known how best to represent the Queen for decades. And is this the first memorial for the London Bridge victims?
DeletePoor Crown Princess Victoria had been left in charge of the monarchy, and of course she was distraught that terrorism occurred on her watch. But again, she is still young (though admittedly older that QEII who had, by her age, sat on the throne for a decade or so) and learning. She must have been deeply relieved when her father returned to his kingdom.
I can't see anything disgraceful about the attendance of the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester at a tragic memorial service. He was born fifth? in line to the throne. He has given up his career and supported the Queen to the best of his ability. His Duchess is active, graceful, and musical. They have raised a lovely family, taken care of his mother who lived to a great age, and served well. They deserve important appointments.
Obviously, I live in a different land. But it is not unusual anywhere to respect experience and long service over youth and internship.
I have nothing but respect for the Gloucesters - they have worked extremely hard for many many years and are now apparently being booted from their home so Harry can have it. I think that is unfortunate.
Delete. But the only reason I know the royal family was represented at all at that memorial, is because I went looking. They didn't even merit a photograph on the news that I saw. You can say that is the press's problem, but it becomes the royal family's problem if they don't make the effort - it leads the question as to what the others are doing - or not doing.
As for senior royals - the Queen and Charles themselves make that distinction - the royals who appeared on the balcony for her jubilee were by definition, the senior royals. At the Trooping, the whole family appears, including many members who are in private life. (That may change when Charles come to the Throne.) But there is a distinction made - for instance, the Gloucesters attend several garden parties, but they don't host them - a senior royal does. In the past, they have been the sole representative at Guildhall banquets for state occasions, but of late, more senior family members attend.
The royal family is a hierarchical institution. That's simply the way it is. And it's not that their attendance is disgraceful - it is the absence of others which is.
People keep saying the Gloucester’s are being ‘booted’ from their home. Is that accurate or it is just no one has commented so that is the assumption? I know many people in their 60’s/70’s who downsize into smaller homes for ease of mobility(smaller spaces and less steps). Any possibility that might be happening? Why assume that Harry immediately had them tossed as soon as he was hitched?
DeleteI think you should leave George out of this. Not necessarily and rather unfortunate comment.
DeleteThat comment about George is uncalled for and nasty.
DeleteI agree with you, Anon 18:34. Enough said.
DeleteFrom my viewpoint, Julia, the problem is the word ‘senior.’ To make the point in what might be a silly cartoon, Prince Louis and the Duke of Gloucester were both born fifth in line to the throne. But the older they grow, the less senior they become. Right now, Louis is senior but the Duke in his seventies is not. He is, however, a dignified and experiened royal. We won’t be seeing little Louis performing royal duties for a number of years. It makes ‘senior’ as used in the royal family seem a bit humorous.
Speaking of that greatly pared down balcony appearance, I noticed again the scarcity of people on the chapel steps as Harry and Meghan departed their wedding. When other royals have married at Windsor, the extended families gathered to send them off. I wonder whether this was also Charles’s work. Prince William did not look happy at that point. He was also dealing with cranky George, but I wonder whether a dictum from his father was bothering him.
DeleteHmm i wondered prince louis will be izn christening. In jumre carole midleton hinted in hello big. Celebration ahead of middletons and mattews pippa pregancy id going on and. Vogue willams birth. James brother is on. Hmm we have. Bunch cousin for pippa child Prince George princess charlotte and prince louie. Have a bunch of cousin in her mother side and ibn her dad side i wish zara tidals will have boy these time
ReplyDeletePoor Kate ! She's only been out of public view for a few months, and already, the 'calling her out' comments are rife ! Kate is not only bringing up her children, she's nurturing a future king ! I'd guess, that takes a little more balancing than most ! My children have had the freedom to choose their own careers, and make their life choices, of which as a Mother I am grateful of. That can't be said of George, Charlotte and Louis. So instead of finding fault with the time Kate is having with her little ones, let's support her, and encourage her to be the best Mother she can be, in the hope that it will give her three little ones, the 'life tools' they'll need to take on their royals roles in the future.
ReplyDeleteAmen. Well said.
DeleteVery well said and thank you for expressing these thoughts. I am in complete agreement.
DeleteMy guess is Louis will likely have a career in private life - with the contracting of the royal family - the main roles are likely to be for George and Charlotte only - and how well Kate does in her role is the greatest and best gift she can give her children - Charles is inheriting a very strong position from his mother's work - the whole family is basing their future on the hugely strong foundation the queen has made for them. But once she is gone, that strong foundation is going to need to continue or George and Charlotte may have more career choices than expected - and if they are like most former royals - may wish they hadn't. I see very few former royals who are happy they are in that situation - so perhaps royal life is quite as restrictive as we think. The real world also has its disadvantages.
DeleteAnd I know many superb mothers who also work - and some mums who don't work who have raised troubled children - so I don't think mothering skills should be based on that - it is an insult to many excellent mums who have to work.
Well said! No life is perfect! For every privilege, there is something that has to be given up or a challenge taken on.
DeleteVery well said. I agree and hope Kate continues on her path of putting her family first. With all the talk of empowering women, her choice is her choice and I am sure she has support from the "Firm". If she had chosen to go right back to work after giving birth that would have also been her choice and it is not for any of us to say what she should or should not be doing. I also hope she stays far away from the comments sections in these blogs as it would be very disheartening to any woman to be criticized for everything she does or does not do. I am also pretty sure it will be the same for Meghan and thank goodness she is a strong woman also able to make her own choices.
DeletePrincess Anne has said repeatedly that the queen was a wonderful mother - I hardly think the fact Anne married a man who became involved with other women and has had at least one more broken marriage, on the queen - or even on Anne.
DeleteBy all reports the queen spent far more time with Andrew and Edward and was not a hands-off mother to them. Andrew unquestionably was apparently spoilt - although his broken marriage seems more to have come from a poor choice of wife. Edward has had a happy marriage and the queen seems particularly close to him, Sophie and their children.
So your comment that the children 'suffered significantly' from her neglect is simply wrong - and perhaps you would like to do some reading on the subject during your time off - because I find your remark about the queen rather offensive - it is simply not true that she treated her children abysmally. That is a horrid thing to say and not true. She may be from a different era which had different standards of child-rearing but three of her four children have spoken favourably about her.
People often make broad assumptions about the failures of the three of the marriages of the queen's children without looking at the very different reasons -one had an unfaithful husband, one had a wife who was bored and unhappy and ultimately unfaithful - sadly not uncommon in military marriages - and one whom he still obviously holds affection for - these are not the same circumstances as Charles and Diana.
The only one of the queen's children who seemed unhappy with his upbringing is Charles - and we can assume the queen is partly responsibly for his monumental self-pity although Anne - raised in the same way, seemed entirely comfortable with her upbringing, has a strong work-ethic - and has raised well-adjusted children - and has a lively happy grandchild.
I've never suggested Kate not take time off - we were speaking of one or two appearances in months of free time. Other royals manage to work and are raising happy, well-adjusted children - children who frankly seem happier and less timid than George, although I trust that will change in time - I've seen it happen.
We all make choices and if you marry a person in public life - and if you receive public support for your lifestyle - you can expect comments and yes, the public will have a say in how you live your life because - at the end of the day - they are paying towards it - and have their own children to support and their own responsibilities.
I really do wonder if one of the "problems" here is that Kate isn't living her life and prioritizing it as feminists would advocate. Instead, she has a quiet strength and appears to be determined to have her children benefit from the family life she enjoyed. Values that William must share for rather obvious reasons. And Amen to that because their children will need every bit of it in their unique and high profile roles. As women, haven't we come "far" if this desire is no longer valued.
DeleteRoyalfan,
DeleteI can’t speak for anyone else here, but I am a very proud feminist, and I have no problem with Kate choosing to be a mother first and foremost. I would only have a problem if someone besides Kate herself was making that decision for her.
It is possible in the future that the children of this generation may work together to avoid one member having to devote his life to being a royal. I can see them all having a profession yet allowing equal time for appearances and special memorial events. I mean, who can replace the Queen?
ReplyDeleteThis!!!!
DeleteIn my opinion there is a silent evolution happening. We don’t notice as we are seeing a gradual change. Perhaps the most important is the evolution of a formal role for Prince Harry. Previously the men went into the services and women did charity work. Very much still in the Edwardian/Victorian mode. No other choices and it affected both Andrew and Edward. Edward struggled for years to find purpose when he didn’t suit being in the services . And Andrew after his service career had a sort ambassador role with not much substance and absolutely no understanding or experience of the business world and its darker side. No wonder he got into difficulties. Prince Charles will be fine. His interests have always been ahead or of his time. He was green before the world woke up to the concept. He is also enough of a traditionalist to not scare the populace by a too radical shake up of the operation of the Monarchy. Most people don’t like or handle change much so gradual is better.
DeleteThere's a fine old saying - if it's not broken, don't try to fix it. I closely watch the activities of other royal families (on other sites) and they are not making dramatic changes to the traditional role of royal life. I have made this caveat before and will make it again - if royals become too close to being celebrities - if they only take on the flashy roles, soon there will be no need for a royal family - a strong and firm line must be made between those two things - because that's where respect comes.
DeleteOnce Edward and Sophie stopped trying to be different and 'modern' their popularity increased enormously. And quite honestly, Andrew IS fairly popular amongst the many in the business and technical community - I know people who think highly of him - it is his personal life and the failure to moderate that - and the press turning against him - (for instance calling attention to his travel with the nickname Airmiles Andy) that has harmed his so much. The first is entirely of his own doing but the second offers a warning how public perception can be guided by the press - and it is more complex than that - the press targets what sells - they pick up the public mood - we are seeing that now in articles that are almost schizophrenic - because there is much unhappiness with the younger royals - and yet the press wants to market every possible occasion.
And worth remembering he Commonwealth is vital as are relations with Europe - which makes the British royal family's aloofness from other royals so odd - but at the end of the day - what matters most is what happens at home - that is particularly important for Harry and Meghan to remember - but not something for William or Kate to forget either.
As for the London Bridge memorial - the absence of a major royal completely baffles me - I wouldn't have expected the queen (although her appearance at the Derby was noted) but Charles is about - he has an age charity reception this week - and so are Camilla and William - and Harry and Meghan's attendance at another memorial - but not this one - has been noted and commented on - and then there's Andrew and his daughters and and Edward and Sophie.
The Gloucesters have always worked quietly - and I have much respect for them and are sorry they have been booted from their flat apparently - after all their hard work - but perhaps they don't mind. (Personally, I don't think the time is right for an expensive redo for a home for Harry!) But they went unnoticed at the memorial and with people already sensitive to this tragic episode being underplayed it was not a time for the royal family not to being out their top people. (Especially since several who died were from the Commonwealth and Europe.)
Since lives were lost in one of Leo's and my favourite restaurants - where we had been just a short time before - perhaps I'm rather sensitive about this.
Allison, I think that's an intriguing thought & concept. You may be on to something? :)
Delete